Volunteers needed to help clean new paint off Jurassic-era rock formation

It’s time again for the annual cleanup of Dinosaur Rock, a 200-million-year-old rock formation on State Game Lands 145 in South Londonderry Township.

Dinosaur Rock dates back to the early Jurassic period, formed when a molten injection cut through existing Triassic sedimentary rocks, which later eroded away, leaving behind a diabase formation that stands about 15 feet off the forest floor.

Despite its age, the popular landmark remains vulnerable to graffiti artists who don’t respect its venerable history. Accordingly, the Lebanon Valley Conservancy and the state Game Commission have organized a cleaning effort on Saturday, June 20, beginning at 9 a.m.

Volunteers willing to scrub the rocks are asked to meet at the Dinosaur Rock parking area off Mount Wilson Road. The Game Commission will provide safety equipment, including gloves, suits, and eye protection, as well as water, paint remover, and applicators. Volunteers should wear sturdy footwear, such as rubber boots, to protect themselves from the rocks and paint remover.

Pat Krebs, volunteer coordinator for the project, said in an email that organizers hope participants will spread the word to recruit new volunteers, as well as letting people know “how graffiti ruins a natural formation and the significant cost of removal in terms of labor and money.”

Participants can just show up at the parking area, sign a release form, and get to work. Interested individuals can also contact Krebs at patkrebs43@gmail.com to volunteer or ask questions.

Anyone who owns a gas-powered pressure washer is asked to bring it along to assist in the cleanup.

The Game Commission has stepped up enforcement efforts to discourage graffiti on the formation, which has been known as Dinosaur Rock since at least the 1950s. Anyone who observes vandalism at Dinosaur Rock or other game lands should call commission hotlines at 1-833-PGC-HUNT or 1-833-PGC-WILD.